The American Federation of Teachers (AFT), AFL-CIO, is a national labor union representing educators, school staff, higher education faculty, healthcare professionals, and public employees. Founded in 1916, the organization advocates for high-quality public education, workers’ rights, and professional standards for its members.
AFT typically pursues legislation related to public education funding, collective bargaining rights, labor protections, workplace safety, healthcare access, retirement security, and civil rights. The union also advocates for policies supporting public sector workers and expanded access to higher education.
AFT is primarily funded through membership dues paid by its affiliated local and state unions.
AFT is affiliated with the AFL-CIO and works closely with state and local teacher unions, as well as other national labor organizations.
Union
